Gateron CJ vs. Gateron Mountain Top
An in-depth look at the Gateron CJ and the Gateron Mountain Top switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron CJ and the Gateron Mountain Top mechanical keyboard switches, it is evident that they both offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences and environments. The CJ is praised for its unique and enjoyable presentation of a linear switch, providing a higher-pitched clack and smooth push feel. On the other hand, the Mountain Top is designed specifically for office settings, offering a quiet yet not entirely silent typing experience with a light actuation. While the CJ is characterized as 'Chirpy' and 'Low-pitched', the Mountain Top is described as 'Bouncy' and 'Subtle'. Choosing between these two switches ultimately depends on personal preference and the specific environment in which they will be used. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
22mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The Gateron CJ and the Gateron Mountain Top both utilize different housing materials for their switches, with the CJ featuring a proprietary INK blend top housing and POM bottom housing, while the Mountain Top uses nylon for both the top and bottom housing. The INK blend top housing of the CJ produces a higher-pitched and clacky sound, whereas the nylon top housing of the Mountain Top creates a deeper and fuller sound profile. Similarly, the POM bottom housing of the CJ provides a unique, deep, and muted sound, while the nylon bottom housing of the Mountain Top contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile.
Despite the differences in housing materials between the Gateron CJ and the Gateron Mountain Top, both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences. The CJ's INK blend top housing results in a pointed and high-pitched sound, while the Mountain Top's nylon top housing produces a deeper and fuller sound. Similarly, the CJ's POM bottom housing delivers a pleasing and unique deep sound, while the Mountain Top's nylon bottom housing contributes to a fuller sound profile. These differences in housing materials highlight the importance of material selection in creating distinct auditory experiences for keyboard enthusiasts.
In terms of functionality, the top and bottom housings of a switch play different roles in determining the overall sound and feel of the switch. The bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when the key is pressed, while the top housing affects the sound when the key is released. In the case of the CJ and the Mountain Top, the split between the top and bottom housings allows for a balance of qualities that contribute to the overall typing experience. Whether opting for the CJ or the Mountain Top, users can expect a unique sound profile that is influenced by the choice of housing materials in each switch.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch, the actuation force and bottom out force play a significant role in determining the typing experience. The CJ has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Mountain Top's lighter 40 grams. Similarly, the CJ also has a higher bottom out force of 60 grams, while the Mountain Top requires only 50 grams to bottom out. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Mountain Top switch, as it requires less force for both actuation and bottoming out. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a bit more feedback and resistance in their keystrokes may find the CJ switch more satisfying. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference, with lighter weights being ideal for longer typing sessions and heavier weights offering a more substantial typing feel.
Travel distance
The Gateron CJ linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. This means that the CJ switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Mountain Top switch. The CJ switch offers a more traditional typing experience with its 4 mm travel distance, while the Mountain Top switch provides a slightly shallower feel with its 3.4 mm travel distance. Gamers who prefer faster response times may lean towards the Mountain Top switch, while those who prefer a deeper key press may opt for the CJ switch. Overall, both switches offer unique typing experiences based on their travel distances, catering to different preferences.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron CJ has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the CJ for $5.35.
The Gateron Mountain Top comes in at $6.00 per 10 switches.
Here at Milktooth, we offer the best prices on switches (on average, 27% lower the competition). In addition, we offer free shipping on orders over $49.00. We also offer free returns and exchanges, so you can shop with guaranteed satisfaction.
That said, while price is an important piece of the puzzle, our opinion is that you should ultimately pick the option that most suits your unique preferences since you’ll be using these switches for years to come. In other words, finding something perfect for you is, in our view, the most important criteria.
Typing experience
In terms of sound, the Gateron CJ linear switch is characterized by a chirpy and high-pitched sound, setting it apart with its unique acoustic signature. On the other hand, the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch offers a more neutral sound profile, designed to provide a quiet typing experience suitable for office environments. Depending on personal preference and the setup of the keyboard, one may prefer the lively chirps of the CJ or the subtle and unobtrusive sound of the Mountain Top.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Gateron CJ linear switch is described as providing a mild typing experience, offering a gentle feel that falls within a safe, middle-ground zone. In contrast, the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch is known for being bouncy and easy-to-press, providing a responsive and low-impact typing experience ideal for prolonged use in professional settings. Whether one prefers a mild and gentle typing feel or a more lively and spring-like feedback sensation, the choice between the CJ and Mountain Top switches will depend on individual preferences and typing habits.
Overall, when comparing the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch, it is clear that they offer distinct sound and feel qualities catering to different preferences and environments. While the CJ switch provides a chirpy and higher-pitched sound with a mild typing feel, the Mountain Top switch offers a neutral and quiet sound profile with a bouncy and easy-to-press typing experience. Depending on whether one favors a unique acoustic signature or a more discreet typing experience, choosing between the CJ and Mountain Top switches will ultimately come down to personal preference and intended usage.
Conclusion
In closing, when selecting between the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch, consider the factors of bottom out force, sound, and feel to make the best decision based on your preferences and needs. If you prefer a medium bottom out force and enjoy a unique, higher-pitched sound with an incredibly smooth push feel, the CJ switch may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and prioritize a quiet yet not entirely silent typing experience suitable for office environments, the Mountain Top switch is likely the better option. Ultimately, the decision should align with your personal typing style and environment to ensure the most enjoyable and comfortable experience with your mechanical keyboard.
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